The Nigerian Army has completed the rotation of its troops serving under the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau, with Lieutenant Colonel Afam Junior Chidi assuming command of the Nigerian contingent from Lieutenant Colonel Bibode Clarke.
The army shared on Tuesday that the handover ceremony was held on August 3 at the Nigerian Contingent Headquarters in Bissau, marking the transition from Nigerian Company 4 to Nigerian Company 5 following the routine rotation of troops in the mission area.
The Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement issued by the Mission Public Information Officer, Major Yahaya Nasir Kabara.
In his farewell address, Clarke described the troop rotation as “a routine exercise aimed at rejuvenating operational effectiveness and sustaining the professionalism of the Nigerian Army.”
He thanked officers and soldiers for their support during his one-year tenure, noting that the “contingent had contributed to the maintenance of peace, security and stability in Guinea-Bissau.”
Clarke also urged personnel of Nigerian Company 5 to uphold “the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and commitment in the discharge of their duties.”
Taking over command, Chidi commended his predecessor for what he described as exemplary leadership and a smooth transition process.
He pledged to build on the achievements of Nigerian Company 4 and continue supporting the mandate of the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in promoting peace, security and stability in Guinea-Bissau.
The ceremony featured the signing of the handing and taking-over notes, inspection of the Quarter Guard, the formal transfer of command and the Nigerian Company flag, as well as group photographs.